U.S. patent application number 17/118472 was filed with the patent office on 2021-06-10 for method for high-pressure access through a multilateral junction.
The applicant listed for this patent is Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.. Invention is credited to Wesley Paul Dietz, Stacey Blaine Donovan, Morten Falnes, Christian Alexander Ramirez, David Joe Steele, Srinivasa Prasanna Vemuri.
Application Number | 20210172294 17/118472 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005313593 |
Filed Date | 2021-06-10 |
United States Patent
Application |
20210172294 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Steele; David Joe ; et
al. |
June 10, 2021 |
METHOD FOR HIGH-PRESSURE ACCESS THROUGH A MULTILATERAL JUNCTION
Abstract
Provided is a method for accessing a well system. The method, in
one aspect, includes placing a multilateral junction proximate an
intersection between a main wellbore and a lateral wellbore, the
multilateral junction including a y-block, a mainbore leg coupled
to a second bore of the y-block and extending into the main
wellbore, and a lateral bore leg coupled to a third bore of the
y-block and extending into the lateral wellbore. The method, in one
aspect, further includes selectively accessing at least one of the
main wellbore or the lateral wellbore with a fracturing string
through the y-block.
Inventors: |
Steele; David Joe;
(Carrollton, TX) ; Vemuri; Srinivasa Prasanna;
(Frisco, TX) ; Donovan; Stacey Blaine; (Fort
Worth, TX) ; Falnes; Morten; (Sola, NO) ;
Dietz; Wesley Paul; (Carrollton, TX) ; Ramirez;
Christian Alexander; (Irving, TX) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Halliburton Energy Services, Inc. |
Houston |
TX |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005313593 |
Appl. No.: |
17/118472 |
Filed: |
December 10, 2020 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62946219 |
Dec 10, 2019 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E21B 43/14 20130101;
E21B 41/0035 20130101; E21B 43/26 20130101 |
International
Class: |
E21B 41/00 20060101
E21B041/00 |
Claims
1. A method for accessing a well system, comprising: placing a
multilateral junction proximate an intersection between a main
wellbore and a lateral wellbore, the multilateral junction
including; a y-block, the y-block including; a housing having a
first end and a second opposing end; a single first bore extending
into the housing from the first end, the single first bore defining
a first centerline; and second and third separate bores extending
into the housing and branching off from the single first bore, the
second bore defining a second centerline and the third bore
defining a third centerline; a mainbore leg coupled to the second
bore and extending into the main wellbore; and a lateral bore leg
coupled to the third bore and extending into the lateral wellbore;
and selectively accessing at least one of the main wellbore or the
lateral wellbore with a fracturing string through the y-block.
2. The method as recited in claim 1, further including fracturing
the at least one of the main wellbore or the lateral wellbore with
the fracturing string extending through the y-block.
3. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein selectively accessing
at least one of the main wellbore or the lateral wellbore includes
selectively accessing the main wellbore with a first fracturing
string through the y-block.
4. The method as recited in claim 3, further including fracturing
the main wellbore with the first fracturing string extending
through the y-block.
5. The method as recited in claim 4, further including selectively
accessing the lateral wellbore with a second fracturing string
through the y-block.
6. The method as recited in claim 5, further including fracturing
the lateral wellbore with the second fracturing string extending
through the y-block.
7. The method as recited in claim 6, wherein selectively accessing
the main wellbore and fracturing the main wellbore occurs prior to
selectively accessing the lateral wellbore and fracturing the
lateral wellbore.
8. The method as recited in claim 6, wherein selectively accessing
the main wellbore and fracturing the main wellbore occurs after
selectively accessing the lateral wellbore and fracturing the
lateral wellbore.
9. The method as recited in claim 6, further including producing
fluids from fractures in the main wellbore and fractures in the
lateral wellbore through the y-block.
10. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein the main bore leg and
lateral bore leg have an inner diameter (d.sub.M/ID) and diameter
(d.sub.L/ID), respectively, of at least about 80 mm.
11. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein the main bore leg and
lateral bore leg have an inner diameter (d.sub.M/ID) and diameter
(d.sub.L/ID), respectively, of at least about 87 mm.
12. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein the main bore leg and
lateral bore leg have an inner diameter (d.sub.M/ID) and diameter
(d.sub.L/ID), respectively, of at least about 90 mm.
13. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein the fracturing string
has an outside diameter (d.sub.F/OD) of at least about 78 mm.
14. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein the fracturing string
has an outside diameter (d.sub.F/OD) of at least about 85.7 mm.
15. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein the fracturing string
has an inside diameter (d.sub.F/ID) of at least about 50.8 mm.
16. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein the multilateral
junction is operable to handle at least 8,000 psi burst rate.
17. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein the multilateral
junction is operable to handle at least 10,000 psi burst rate.
18. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein the second and third
centerlines are angled relative to one another.
19. The method as recited in claim 18, wherein the second and third
bores overlap one another proximate the single first bore.
20. The method as recited in claim 19, wherein a shared interior
wall of the second and third bores comes to a sharp point at a
location wherein the second and third bores overlap one
another.
21. The method as recited in claim 19, wherein a shared interior
wall of the second and third bores comes to a blunt stress relief
point at a location wherein the second and third bores overlap one
another.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application Ser. No. 62/946,219, filed on Dec. 10, 2019, entitled
"HIGH PRESSURE MIC WITH MAINBORE AND LATERAL ACCESS AND CONTROL",
currently pending and incorporated herein by reference in its
entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] A variety of borehole operations require selective access to
specific areas of the wellbore. One such selective borehole
operation is horizontal multistage hydraulic stimulation, as well
as multistage hydraulic fracturing ("frac" or "fracking"). In
multilateral wells, the multistage stimulation treatments are
performed inside multiple lateral wellbores. Efficient access to
all lateral wellbores is critical to complete a successful pressure
stimulation treatment, as well as is critical to selectively enter
the multiple lateral wellbores with other downhole devices.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
[0003] Reference is now made to the following descriptions taken in
conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0004] FIG. 1 illustrates a well system for hydrocarbon reservoir
production, the well system including a y-block designed,
manufactured and operated according to one or more embodiments of
the disclosure;
[0005] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a y-block designed,
manufactured and operated according to one or more embodiments of
the disclosure;
[0006] FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-section of the perspective view
of the y-block illustrated in FIG. 2;
[0007] FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-section of a non-perspective view
of the y-block illustrated in FIG. 2;
[0008] FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate various different cross-sectional
views of an area of the y-block where the second and third bores
overlap one another;
[0009] FIG. 6 illustrates one embodiment of a multilateral junction
designed, manufactured and operated according to the disclosure;
and
[0010] FIGS. 7 through 19 illustrate a method for forming,
fracturing and/or producing from a well system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0011] In the drawings and descriptions that follow, like parts are
typically marked throughout the specification and drawings with the
same reference numerals, respectively. The drawn figures are not
necessarily to scale. Certain features of the disclosure may be
shown exaggerated in scale or in somewhat schematic form and some
details of certain elements may not be shown in the interest of
clarity and conciseness. The present disclosure may be implemented
in embodiments of different forms.
[0012] Specific embodiments are described in detail and are shown
in the drawings, with the understanding that the present disclosure
is to be considered an exemplification of the principles of the
disclosure, and is not intended to limit the disclosure to that
illustrated and described herein. It is to be fully recognized that
the different teachings of the embodiments discussed herein may be
employed separately or in any suitable combination to produce
desired results.
[0013] Unless otherwise specified, use of the terms "connect,"
"engage," "couple," "attach," or any other like term describing an
interaction between elements is not meant to limit the interaction
to a direct interaction between the elements and may also include
an indirect interaction between the elements described. Unless
otherwise specified, use of the terms "up," "upper," "upward,"
"uphole," "upstream," or other like terms shall be construed as
generally toward the surface of the ground; likewise, use of the
terms "down," "lower," "downward," "downhole," or other like terms
shall be construed as generally toward the bottom, terminal end of
a well, regardless of the wellbore orientation. Use of any one or
more of the foregoing terms shall not be construed as denoting
positions along a perfectly vertical axis. In some instances, a
part near the end of the well can be horizontal or even slightly
directed upwards. In such instances, the terms "up," "upper,"
"upward," "uphole," "upstream," or other like terms shall be used
to represent the toward the surface end of a well. Unless otherwise
specified, use of the term "subterranean formation" shall be
construed as encompassing both areas below exposed earth and areas
below earth covered by water such as ocean or fresh water.
[0014] A particular challenge for the oil and gas industry is
developing a pressure tight TAML (Technology Advancement of
Multilaterals) level 5 multilateral junction that can be installed
in casing (e.g., 75/8'' casing) and that also allows for ID access
(e.g., .about.31/2'' ID access) to a main wellbore after the
junction is installed. This type of multilateral junction could be
useful for coiled tubing conveyed stimulation and/or clean-up
operations. It is envisioned that future multilateral wells will be
drilled from existing slots/wells where additional laterals are
added to the existing wellbore. If a side track can be made from
the casing (e.g., 95/8'' casing), there is an option to install a
liner (e.g., 7'' or 75/8'' liner) with a new casing exit point
positioned at an optimal location to reach undrained reserves.
[0015] Referring now to FIG. 1, illustrated is a diagram of a well
system 100 for hydrocarbon reservoir production, according to
certain example embodiments. The well system 100 in one or more
embodiments includes a pumping station 110, a main wellbore 120,
tubing 130, 135, which may have differing tubular diameters, and a
plurality of multilateral junctions 140, and lateral legs 150 with
additional tubing integrated with a main bore of the tubing 130,
135. Each multilateral junction 140 may comprise a junction
designed, manufactured or operated according to the disclosure,
including a multilateral junction comprising a novel y-block
according to the disclosure. The well system 100 may additionally
include a control unit 160. The control unit 160, in this
embodiment, is operable to control to and/or from the multilateral
junctions and/or lateral legs 150, as well as other devices
downhole.
[0016] Turning to FIG. 2, illustrated is a perspective view of a
y-block 200 designed, manufactured and operated according to one or
more embodiments of the disclosure. The y-block 200 includes a
housing 210. For example, the housing 210 could be a solid piece of
metal having been milled to contain various different bores
according to the disclosure. In another embodiment, the housing 210
is a cast metal housing formed with the various different bores
according to the disclosure. The housing 210, in accordance with
one embodiment, may include a first end 220 and a second opposing
end 225. The first end 220, in one or more embodiments, is a first
uphole end, and the second end 225, in one or more embodiments, is
a second downhole end.
[0017] The housing 210 may have a length (L), which in the
disclosed embodiment is defined by the first end 220 and the second
opposing end 225. The length (L) may vary greatly and remain within
the scope of the disclosure. In one embodiment, however, the length
(L) ranges from about 0.5 meters to about 4 meters. In yet another
embodiment, the length (L) ranges from about 1.5 meters to about
2.0 meters, and in yet another embodiment the length (L) is
approximately 1.8 meters (e.g., approximately 72 inches).
[0018] The y-block 200, in one or more embodiments, includes a
single first bore 230 extending into the housing 210 from the first
end 220. In the disclosed embodiment, the single first bore 230
defines a first centerline 235. The y-block 200, in one or more
embodiments, further includes a second bore 240 and a third bore
250 extending into the housing 210. In the illustrated embodiment
the second bore 240 and the third bore 250 branch off from the
single first bore 230 at a point between the first end 220 and the
second opposing end 225. In accordance with one embodiment of the
disclosure, the second bore 240 defines a second centerline 245 and
the third bore 250 defines a third centerline 255. As will be
discussed more fully below, the second centerline 245 and the third
centerline 255 may be angled relative to one another in one or more
embodiments consistent with the disclosure. Moreover, the y-block
200 provides equal and selective access to both legs.
[0019] Turning to FIG. 3, illustrated is a cross-section of the
perspective view of the y-block 200 illustrated in FIG. 2. FIG. 3
more clearly illustrates the first centerline 235, the second
centerline 245 and the third centerline 255. FIG. 3 additionally
illustrates how the second bore 240 and the third bore 250 branch
off from the single first bore 230 at a point between the first end
220 and the second opposing end 225. Specific to the embodiment of
FIG. 3, the second bore 240 and the third bore 250 branch off from
the single first bore 230 at a point proximate the first end 220.
In certain embodiments, such as that shown, the second and third
bores 240, 250 overlap one another proximate the single first bore
230. Accordingly, the overlapped portion of the second and third
bores 240, 250 may provide for commingling of fluids from the
second bore 240 and the third bore 250 within the y-block 200. The
second bore 240 and the third bore 250, in one or more embodiments,
are a main leg bore and a lateral leg bore, respectively.
[0020] Turning to FIG. 4, illustrated is a cross-section of a
non-perspective view of the y-block 200 illustrated in FIG. 2. FIG.
4 further illustrates that the second centerline 245 and the third
centerline 255 are angled relative to one another, for example by
an angle (.beta.). This angle (.beta.) helps with the frac burst
rating of the y-block 200. In certain embodiments, the angle
(.beta.) helps the y-block 200 achieve a 5,000 psi burst rate, and
in yet other embodiments the angle (.beta.) helps the y-block 200
achieve a 8,000 psi burst rate, and in even yet other embodiments
the angle (.beta.) helps the y-block 200 achieve a 10,000 psi burst
rate. The angle (.beta.) may vary greatly based upon the length
(L), but tends to be below about 3 degrees. In certain other
embodiments, the angle (.beta.) may be less than 2 degrees, and in
certain embodiments approximately 1 degree or less.
[0021] Further to the embodiment of FIG. 4, the second centerline
245 is angled relative to the first centerline 235, and in yet
another embodiment the third centerline 255 is angled relative to
the first centerline 235. Accordingly, one or both of the second
centerline 245 and/or third centerline 255 may be angled relative
to the first centerline 235. For example, the second centerline 245
might have an angle (.theta.) between itself and the first
centerline 235, and the third centerline 255 might have an angle
(.alpha.) between itself and the first centerline 235. In one or
more embodiments of the disclosure, the angle (.theta.) is greater
than the angle (.alpha.). The angle (.theta.) may vary greatly
based upon the length (L), but tends to be below about 1 degree. In
certain other embodiments, the angle (.theta.) may be less than
0.75 degrees, and in certain embodiments approximately 0.6 degrees.
The angle (.alpha.) may also vary greatly based upon the length
(L), but tends to be below about 1 degree. In certain other
embodiments, the angle (.alpha.) may be less than 0.75 degrees, and
in certain embodiments approximately 0.4 degrees. Assuming that the
first centerline 235 is a horizontal line, and the second
centerline 245 angles down from horizontal by the angle (.theta.)
and the third centerline 255 angles up from the horizontal line by
the angle (.alpha.), the angle (.theta.) and the angle (.alpha.)
would add up to the angle (.beta.) discussed above.
[0022] The second and third centerlines 245, 255, in one or more
embodiments, are straight centerlines extending along the length
(L) of the y-block 200. For example, in this embodiment, the second
bore 240 and/or third bore 250 would each include only a single
straight centerline, as opposed to each including two or more
angularly offset centerlines. Moreover, even if the second bore 240
and/or third bore 250 have different portions with different
diameters, such as is the case with the second bore 240 illustrated
in FIG. 4, in accordance with this embodiment the second centerline
245 and third centerline 255 would still each include only a single
straight centerline. Moreover, it should be noted that centerline
235 does not need to be concentric with the OD defined by 244.
[0023] The single first bore 230, the second bore 240 and the third
bore 250 may have different diameters and remain with the scope of
the disclosure. In one embodiment, the single first bore 230 has a
diameter (d.sub.1). The diameter (d.sub.1) may range greatly, but
in one or more embodiments the diameter (d.sub.1) ranges from about
2.5 cm to about 60.1 cm (e.g., from about 1 inches to about 24
inches). The diameter (d.sub.1), in one or more embodiments, ranges
from about 7.6 cm to about 40.6 cm (e.g., from about 3 inches to
about 16 inches). In yet another embodiment, the diameter (d.sub.1)
may range from about 15.2 cm to about 30.5 cm (e.g., from about 6
inches to about 12 inches). In yet another embodiment, the diameter
(d.sub.1) may range from about 17.8 cm to about 25.4 cm (e.g., from
about 7 inches to about 10 inches), and more specifically in one
embodiment a value of about 21.6 cm (e.g., about 8.5 inches).
[0024] In one embodiment, the third bore 250 has a diameter
(d.sub.3). The diameter (d.sub.3) may range greatly, but in one or
more embodiments the diameter (d.sub.3) ranges from about 0.64 cm
to about 50.8 cm (e.g., from about 1/4 inches to about 20 inches).
The diameter (d.sub.3), in one or more other embodiments, ranges
from about 2.5 cm to about 17.8 cm (e.g., from about 1 inches to
about 7 inches). In yet another embodiment, the diameter (d.sub.3)
may range from about 6.4 cm to about 12.7 cm (e.g., from about 2.5
inches to about 5 inches). In yet another embodiment, the diameter
(d.sub.3) may range from about 7.6 cm to about 10.2 cm (e.g., from
about 3 inches to about 4 inches), and more specifically in one
embodiment a value of about 8.9 cm (e.g., about 3.5 inches).
[0025] In one embodiment, the second bore 240 has a diameter
(d.sub.2). The diameter (d.sub.2) may range greatly, but in one or
more embodiments the diameter (d.sub.2) ranges from about 0.64 cm
to about 50.8 cm (e.g., from about 1/4 inches to about 20 inches).
The diameter (d.sub.2), in one or more embodiments, ranges from
about 2.5 cm to about 17.8 cm (e.g., from about 1 inches to about 7
inches). In yet another embodiment, the diameter (d.sub.2) may
range from about 6.4 cm to about 12.7 cm (e.g., from about 2.5
inches to about 5 inches). In yet another embodiment, the diameter
(d.sub.2) may range from about 7.6 cm to about 10.2 cm (e.g., from
about 3 inches to about 4 inches), and more specifically in one
embodiment a value of about 8.9 cm (e.g., about 3.5 inches). In
certain other embodiments, the second bore 240 has a first portion
242 and a second portion 244. In the illustrated embodiment, the
first portion 242 has the diameter (d.sub.2) and the second portion
has a greater diameter (d.sub.2'). The greater diameter (d.sub.2')
provides the ability to land all the necessary tools within the
y-block 200. The greater diameter (d.sub.2') may range greatly, but
in one or more embodiments the greater diameter (d.sub.2') ranges
from about 0.95 cm to about 53.3 cm (e.g., from about 3/8 inches to
about 21 inches). The greater diameter (d.sub.2'), in one or more
embodiments, ranges from about 3.18 cm to about 18.4 cm (e.g., from
about 1.25 inches to about 7.25 inches). In yet another embodiment,
the greater diameter (d.sub.2') may range from about 7 cm to about
13.34 cm (e.g., from about 2.75 inches to about 5.25 inches). In
yet another embodiment, the diameter (d.sub.2) may range from about
8.26 cm to about 10.8 cm (e.g., from about 3.25 inches to about
4.25 inches), and more specifically in one embodiment a value of
about 9.53 cm (e.g., about 3.75 inches). In certain other
embodiments, the second diameter (d.sub.2) is equal to the third
diameter (d.sub.3), and the greater diameter (d.sub.2') is larger
than both the second diameter (d.sub.2) and the third diameter
(d.sub.3).
[0026] In certain embodiments, the second portion 244 is located
between the first portion 242 and the single first bore 230.
Furthermore, in certain other embodiments, the first portion 242
has a length (L.sub.1) and the second portion 244 has a length
(L.sub.2). In accordance with one or more embodiments, the length
(L.sub.2) of the second portion 244 is at least two times a length
(L.sub.1) of the first portion 242. In accordance with one or more
other embodiments, the length (L.sub.2) of the second portion 244
is at least three times a length (L.sub.1) of the first portion
242.
[0027] The single first bore 230, second bore 240 and third bore
250, in one or more embodiments, are configured to connect with
various different features. For example, in one or more
embodiments, the single first bore 230 may include a box joint or a
pin joint for engaging with the other uphole features. Similarly,
the second bore 240 could include a box joint or a pin joint for
engaging with the other downhole features, such as main wellbore
leg. In one or more other embodiments, the third bore 250 might be
relegated to a box joint for engaging with other downhole features,
such as the lateral wellbore leg. Nevertheless, the present
disclosure should not limit the type of joint any of the single
first bore 230, second bore 240 or third bore 250 could employ.
[0028] Turning to FIGS. 5A and 5B, illustrated are various
different cross-sectional views of an area of the y-block 200 where
the second and third bores 240, 250 overlap one another. As shown
in FIG. 5A, which is similar to the y-block of FIG. 4, a shared
interior wall 510 of the second and third bores 240, 250 comes to a
blunt stress relief point 520 at a location wherein the second and
third bores 240, 250 come together. Essentially, the blunt stress
relief point 520 removes the extremely thin sidewall areas of the
second and third bores 240, 250 as they approach one another, for
example to prevent them from physically collapsing under pressure
and potentially damaging the y-block 200. This blunt stress relief
point 520, may be formed by one or more different machining
processes. In certain embodiments, a milling process is used to
form the blunt stress relief point 520. In other embodiments, an
electric discharge machining (EDM) process is used to form the
blunt stress relief point 520. In contrast, FIG. 5B illustrates the
shared interior wall of the second and third bores 240, 250 coming
to a sharp point 530 at a location wherein the second and third
bores 240, 250 come together. The sharp point 530 remains
susceptible to collapsing, but in certain embodiments the collapsed
area adds certain benefits.
[0029] Turning to FIG. 6, illustrated is one embodiment of a
multilateral junction 600 designed, manufactured and operated
according to the disclosure. The multilateral junction 600, in the
illustrated embodiment, includes a y-block 610, a main bore leg
620, and a lateral bore leg 630. The y-block 610 may comprise any
y-block consistent with the disclosure, including the y-block 200
discussed above with regard to FIGS. 2 through 5B.
[0030] The main bore leg 620 and the lateral bore leg 630, in the
illustrated embodiment, are threadingly engaged with the y-block
610. In at least one or more embodiments, the main bore leg 620
includes an outer diameter (d.sub.M/OD) and an inner diameter
(d.sub.M/ID). Similarly, the lateral bore leg 630 includes an outer
diameter (d.sub.L/OD) and an inner diameter (d.sub.L/ID).
[0031] The multilateral junction 600 may additionally include a
tubular 640. The tubular 640, in at least one embodiment, is
configured to provide a consistent (e.g., laminar) flow through the
multilateral junction 600 to reduce turbulence, and include a
spacer insert. The tubular 640 may also, in certain embodiments,
guide an intervention tool (e.g., frac tool) into the second bore
(e.g., main bore) side of the y-block 610.
[0032] In accordance with one embodiment, a deflector (not shown)
may be installed in or above the y-block 610. The deflector, in
this example, may be permanently installed, run-in-hole on a
separate trip as the multilateral junction 600, or run-in-hole on
the same trip as the multilateral junction 600. In other
embodiments, the y-block 610 is a single solid housing having the
single first bore, the second bore and the third bore formed
therein, and to the extent a deflector is necessary, it is formed
as an integral portion of the housing. This is opposed to a
situation where a separate deflector assembly is positioned within
the housing of the y-block 610.
[0033] The multilateral junction 600 may additionally include a TEW
("tubing exit whipstock) sleeve. The TEW sleeve, not shown, is
located within the tubular 640 and in certain embodiments proximate
to or within the y-block 610. The TEW sleeve, when used, is
operable to deflect intervention tools (e.g., such as a fracturing
string), into the third bore (e.g., lateral bore) of the
multilateral junction 600. The TEW sleeve may be installed and
retrieved using a hydraulic running/retrieving tool, among other
tools. In certain embodiments, the TEW sleeve is held in the
multilateral junction 600 using a collet.
[0034] The multilateral junction 600, in one or more embodiments,
is a high pressure multilateral junction. For example, in at least
one embodiment, the multilateral junction 600 is capable of
withstanding at least 8,000 psi burst rate. In yet another example,
the multilateral junction 600 is capable of withstanding at least
10,000 psi burst rate. In at least one embodiment, the multilateral
junction 600 is capable of withstanding at least 5000 psi collapse
rate. In yet another example, the multilateral junction 600 is
capable of withstanding at least 7000 psi collapse rate.
Accordingly, the multilateral junction 600 may be employed to
access and fracture one or both of the main wellbore and/or lateral
wellbore. For example, the multilateral junction 600 could have the
necessary pressure ratings, outside diameters, and inside diameters
necessary to run a fracturing string there through, and thereafter
appropriately and safely fracture one or both of the main wellbore
and/or lateral wellbore.
[0035] Thus, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the
disclosure, the multilateral junction 600 is capable of
withstanding at least 10,000 psi burst rate, with the main bore leg
620 and lateral bore leg 630 having an inner diameter (d.sub.M/ID)
and diameter (d.sub.L/ID), respectively, of at least about 80 mm
(e.g., about 3.15 inches). In certain other embodiments, the main
bore leg 620 and lateral bore leg 630 have an inner diameter
(d.sub.M/ID) and diameter (d.sub.L/ID), respectively, of at least
about 87 mm (e.g., about 3.423 inches). In certain other
embodiments, the main bore leg 620 and lateral bore leg 630 have an
inner diameter (d.sub.M/ID) and diameter (d.sub.L/ID),
respectively, of at least about 90 mm (e.g., about 3.548 inches).
In certain embodiments, the main bore leg 620 and lateral bore leg
630 have an outer diameter (d.sub.M/OD) and diameter (d.sub.L/OD),
respectively, of at least about 101.6 mm (e.g., about 4.0 inches).
Accordingly, a fracturing string having an outside diameter
(d.sub.M/OD) of at least about 78 mm (e.g., about 3.07 inches)
could travel through the multilateral junction 600 and engage with
a main wellbore completion or lateral wellbore completion, for
fracturing the main wellbore or lateral wellbore, respectively. In
yet another embodiment, a fracturing string having an outside
diameter (d.sub.M/OD) of at least about 85.7 mm (e.g., about 3.375
inches) could travel through the multilateral junction 600 and
engage with a main wellbore completion or lateral wellbore
completion, for fracturing the main wellbore or lateral wellbore,
respectively. Such fracturing strings may additionally have an
inside diameter (d.sub.f/ID) of at least about 50.8 mm (e.g., about
2 inches). In accordance with this embodiment, the diameter
(d.sub.2) of the second bore of the y-block 610 and the diameter
(d.sub.3) of the third bore of the y-block 610, might have an
inside diameter, of about 87 mm (e.g., about 3.423 inches).
Heretofore, nobody was capable of fracturing through the main bore
leg 620 and/or lateral bore leg 630 at the aforementioned high
pressures.
[0036] Turning now to FIGS. 7 through 18, illustrated is a method
for forming, accessing, potentially fracturing, and producing from
a well system 700. FIG. 7 is a schematic of the well system 700 at
the initial stages of formation. A main wellbore 710 may be
drilled, for example by a rotary steerable system at the end of a
drill string and may extend from a well origin (not shown), such as
the earth's surface or a sea bottom. The main wellbore 710 may be
lined by one or more casings 715, 720, each of which may be
terminated by a shoe 725, 730.
[0037] The well system 700 of FIG. 7 additionally includes a main
wellbore completion 740 positioned in the main wellbore 710. The
main wellbore completion 740 may, in certain embodiments, include a
main wellbore liner 745 (e.g., with frac sleeves in one
embodiment), as well as one or more packers 750 (e.g., swell
packers in one embodiment). The main wellbore liner 745 and the one
or more packer 750 may, in certain embodiments, be run on an anchor
system 760. The anchor system 760, in one embodiment, includes a
collet profile 765 for engaging with the running tool 790, as well
as a muleshoe 770 (e.g., slotted alignment muleshoe). A standard
workstring orientation tool (WOT) and measurement while drilling
(MWD) tool may be coupled to the running tool 790, and thus be used
to orient the anchor system 760.
[0038] Turning to FIG. 8, illustrated is the well system 700 of
FIG. 7 after positioning a whipstock assembly 810 downhole at a
location where a lateral wellbore is to be formed. The whipstock
assembly 810 includes a collet 820 for engaging the collet profile
765 in the anchor system 760. The whipstock assembly 810
additionally includes one or more seals 830 (e.g., a wiper set in
one embodiment) to seal the whipstock assembly 810 with the main
wellbore completion 740. In certain embodiments, such as that shown
in FIG. 8, the whipstock assembly 810 is made up with a lead mill
840, for example using a shear bolt, and then run in hole on a
drill string 850. The WOT/MWD tool may be employed to orient the
whipstock assembly 810.
[0039] Turning to FIG. 9, illustrated is the well system 700 of
FIG. 8 after setting down weight to shear the shear bolt between
the lead mill 840 and the whipstock assembly 810, and then milling
an initial window pocket 910. In certain embodiments, the initial
window pocket 910 is between 1.5 m and 7.0 m long, and in certain
other embodiments about 2.5 m long, and extends through the casing
720. Thereafter, a circulate and clean process could occur, and
then the drill string 850 and lead mill 840 may be pulled out of
hole.
[0040] Turning to FIG. 10, illustrated is the well system 700 of
FIG. 9 after running a lead mill 1020 and watermelon mill 1030
downhole on a drill string 1010. In the embodiments shown in FIG.
10, the drill string 1010, lead mill 1020 and watermelon mill 1030
drill a full window pocket 1040 in the formation. In certain
embodiments, the full window pocket 1040 is between 5 m and 10 m
long, and in certain other embodiments about 8.5 m long.
Thereafter, a circulate and clean process could occur, and then the
drill string 1010, lead mill 1020 and watermelon mill 1030 may be
pulled out of hole.
[0041] Turning to FIG. 11, illustrated is the well system 700 of
FIG. 10 after running in hole a drill string 1110 with a rotary
steerable assembly 1120, drilling a tangent 1130 following an
inclination of the whipstock assembly 810, and then continuing to
drill the lateral wellbore 1140 to depth. Thereafter, the drill
string 1110 and rotary steerable assembly 1120 may be pulled out of
hole.
[0042] Turning to FIG. 12, illustrated is the well system 700 of
FIG. 11 after employing an inner string 1210 to position a lateral
wellbore completion 1220 in the lateral wellbore 1140. The lateral
wellbore completion 1220 may, in certain embodiments, include a
lateral wellbore liner 1230 (e.g., with frac sleeves in one
embodiment), as well as one or more packers 1240 (e.g., swell
packers in one embodiment). Thereafter, the inner string 1210 may
be pulled into the main wellbore 710 for retrieval of the whipstock
assembly 810.
[0043] Turning to FIG. 13, illustrated is the well system 700 of
FIG. 12 after latching a whipstock retrieval tool 1310 of the inner
string 1210 with a profile in the whipstock assembly 810. The
whipstock assembly 810 may then be pulled free from the anchor
system 760, and then pulled out of hole. What results are the main
wellbore completion 740 in the main wellbore 710, and the lateral
wellbore completion 1220 in the lateral wellbore 1140.
[0044] Turning to FIG. 14, illustrated is the well system 700 of
FIG. 13 after employing a running tool 1410 to install a deflector
assembly 1420 proximate a junction between the main wellbore 710
and the lateral wellbore 1140. The deflector assembly 1420 may be
appropriately oriented using the WOT/MWD tool. The running tool
1410 may then be pulled out of hole.
[0045] Turning to FIG. 15, illustrated is the well system 700 of
FIG. 14 after employing a running tool 1510 to place a multilateral
junction 1520 proximate an intersection between the main wellbore
710 and the lateral wellbore 1410. In accordance with one
embodiment, the multilateral junction 1520 may include similar
features as the multilateral junction 600 discussed above.
Accordingly, the multilateral junction 1520 may be installed as a
unitary junction, wherein the y-block, mainbore leg and lateral
bore leg are all run at the same time. In another embodiments,
other types of multilateral junctions 1520 maybe utilized, such as
a two-piece junction where a portion of the multilateral junction
(e.g., the mainbore leg) is run separately prior to running of the
other portion of the junction (e.g., lateral bore leg). In other
embodiments, where large-access to the mainbore and/or lateral leg
is not required, a multilateral junction 1520 with smaller legs may
be used. Accordingly, the multilateral junction 1520 would include
a y-block designed, manufactured, and operated according to one or
more embodiments of the disclosure, and could be operable to handle
at least 8,000 psi burst rate, or in yet another embodiment at
least about 10,000 psi burst rate.
[0046] In the illustrated embodiment, the multilateral junction
1520 includes a y-block similar to the y-block 200 illustrated with
respect to FIGS. 2 through 5B. For example, while not easily
illustrated given the scale of FIG. 15, the multilateral junction
1520 could have a y-block with the aforementioned second and third
centerlines that are angled relative to one another. Moreover, the
main bore leg and lateral bore leg could have the inner diameters
(dWD) and diameters (d.sub.L/ID), as well as the outer diameters
(d.sub.M/OD) and diameters (d.sub.L/OD) discussed above. For
example, the main bore leg and the lateral bore leg might have an
inner diameter (dWD) and diameter (d.sub.L/ID) of at least about 80
mm, or in another embodiment of at least about 87 mm, or in yet
another embodiment of at least about 90 mm.
[0047] Turning to FIG. 16, illustrated is the well system 700 of
FIG. 15 after selectively accessing the main wellbore 710 with a
first intervention tool 1610 through the y-block of the
multilateral junction 1520. In the illustrated embodiment, the
first intervention tool 1610 is a first fracturing string, and more
particularly a coiled tubing conveyed fracturing string. The first
fracturing string may have any of the outside diameters
(d.sub.F/OD) and inside diameters (d.sub.F/ID) discussed above and
remain within the scope of the disclosure. For example, the first
fracturing string could have an outside diameter (d.sub.F/OD) of at
least about 78 mm, or in yet another embodiment of at least about
85.7. Similarly, the first fracturing string could have an inside
diameter (d.sub.F/ID) of at least about 50.8 mm. With the first
intervention tool 1610 in place, fractures 1620 in the subterranean
formation surrounding the main wellbore completion 740 may be
formed. Thereafter, the first intervention tool 1610 may be pulled
from the main wellbore completion 740.
[0048] Turning to FIG. 17, illustrated is the well system 700 of
FIG. 16 after positioning a second intervention tool 1710 within
the multilateral junction 1520 including the y-block. In the
illustrated embodiment, the second intervention tool 1710 is a
second fracturing string, and more particularly a coiled tubing
conveyed fracturing string. The second fracturing string may have
any of the outside diameters (d.sub.F/OD) and inside diameters
(d.sub.F/ID) discussed above and remain within the scope of the
disclosure. For example, the second fracturing string could have an
outside diameter (d.sub.F/OD) of at least about 78 mm, or in yet
another embodiment of at least about 85.7. Similarly, the second
fracturing string could have an inside diameter (d.sub.F/ID) of at
least about 50.8 mm.
[0049] Turning to FIG. 18, illustrated is the well system 700 of
FIG. 17 after putting additional weight down on the second
intervention tool 1710 and causing the second intervention tool
1710 to enter the lateral wellbore 1140. With the downhole tool
1710 in place, fractures 1820 in the subterranean formation
surrounding the lateral wellbore completion 1220 may be formed. In
certain embodiments, the first intervention tool 1610 and the
second intervention tool 1710 are the same intervention tool, and
thus the same fracturing tool in one or more embodiments.
Thereafter, the second intervention tool 1710 may be pulled from
the lateral wellbore completion 1220 and out of the hole.
[0050] The embodiments discussed above reference that the main
wellbore 710 is selectively accessed and fractured prior to the
lateral wellbore 1140. Nevertheless, other embodiments may exist
wherein the lateral wellbore 1140 is selectively accessed and
fractured prior to the main wellbore 710. The embodiments discussed
above additionally reference that both the main wellbore 710 and
the lateral wellbore 1140 are selectively accessed and fractured
through the y-block. Other embodiments may exist wherein only one
of the main wellbore 710 or the lateral wellbore 1140 is
selectively accessed and fractured through the y-block.
[0051] Turning to FIG. 19, illustrated is the well system 700 of
FIG. 18 after producing fluids 1910 from the fractures 1620 in the
main wellbore 710, and producing fluids 1920 from the fractures
1820 in the lateral wellbore 1140. The producing of the fluids
1910, 1920 occur through the multilateral junction 1520, and more
specifically through the y-block design, manufactured and operated
according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.
[0052] Aspects disclosed herein include:
[0053] A. A y-block, the y-block including: 1) a housing having a
first end and a second opposing end; 2) a single first bore
extending into the housing from the first end, the single first
bore defining a first centerline; and 3) second and third separate
bores extending into the housing and branching off from the single
first bore, the second bore defining a second centerline and the
third bore defining a third centerline, wherein the second and
third centerlines are angled relative to one another.
[0054] B. A multilateral junction, the multilateral junction
including: 1) a y-block, the y-block including; a) a housing having
a first end and a second opposing end; b) a single first bore
extending into the housing from the first end, the single first
bore defining a first centerline; and c) second and third separate
bores extending into the housing and branching off from the single
first bore, the second bore defining a second centerline and the
third bore defining a third centerline, wherein the second and
third centerlines are angled relative to one another; 2) a mainbore
leg coupled to the second bore for extending into the main
wellbore; and 3) a lateral bore leg coupled to the third bore for
extending into the lateral wellbore.
[0055] C. A well system, the well system including: 1) a main
wellbore; 2) a lateral wellbore extending from the main wellbore;
and 3) a multilateral junction positioned at an intersection of the
main wellbore and the lateral wellbore, the multilateral junction
including; a) a y-block, the y-block including; i) a housing having
a first end and a second opposing end; ii) a single first bore
extending into the housing from the first end, the single first
bore defining a first centerline; and iii) second and third
separate bores extending into the housing and branching off from
the single first bore, the second bore defining a second centerline
and the third bore defining a third centerline, wherein the second
and third centerlines are angled relative to one another; b) a
mainbore leg coupled to the second bore and extending into the main
wellbore; and c) a lateral bore leg coupled to the third bore and
extending into the lateral wellbore.
[0056] D. A method for accessing a well system, the method
including: 1) placing a multilateral junction proximate an
intersection between a main wellbore and a lateral wellbore, the
multilateral junction including; a) a y-block, the y-block
including; i) a housing having a first end and a second opposing
end; ii) a single first bore extending into the housing from the
first end, the single first bore defining a first centerline; and
iii) second and third separate bores extending into the housing and
branching off from the single first bore, the second bore defining
a second centerline and the third bore defining a third centerline;
b) a mainbore leg coupled to the second bore and extending into the
main wellbore; and c) a lateral bore leg coupled to the third bore
and extending into the lateral wellbore; and 2) selectively
accessing at least one of the main wellbore or the lateral wellbore
with a fracturing string through the y-block.
[0057] Aspects A, B, C and D may have one or more of the following
additional elements in combination: Element 1: wherein the second
centerline is angled relative to the first centerline. Element 2:
wherein the third centerline is angled relative to the first
centerline. Element 3: wherein the second centerline has a greater
angle (.theta.) between itself and the first centerline than an
angle (.alpha.) between the third centerline and the first
centerline. Element 4: wherein the second bore is a main leg bore
and the third bore is a lateral leg bore. Element 5: wherein the
second bore has a diameter (d.sub.2) and the third bore has a
diameter (d.sub.3), and further wherein the diameter (d.sub.2) is
the same as the diameter (d.sub.3). Element 6: wherein the second
bore has a first portion having the diameter (d.sub.2) and a second
portion having a greater diameter (d.sub.2'). Element 7: wherein
the second portion is located between the first portion and the
single first bore. Element 8: wherein a length (L.sub.2) of the
second portion is at least two times a length (L.sub.1) of the
first portion. Element 9: wherein the second and third bores
overlap one another proximate the single first bore. Element 10:
wherein a shared interior wall of the second and third bores comes
to a sharp point at a location wherein the second and third bores
overlap one another. Element 11: wherein a shared interior wall of
the second and third bores comes to a blunt stress relief point at
a location wherein the second and third bores overlap one another.
Element 12: wherein the third bore includes a box joint at the
second opposing end. Element 13: wherein the second bore includes a
pin joint at the second opposing end. Element 14: wherein the
mainbore leg and the lateral bore leg are threadingly engaged with
the y-block. Element 15: wherein the second bore and the third bore
each include only a single straight centerline. Element 16: wherein
the second centerline is angled relative to the first centerline.
Element 17: wherein the third centerline is angled relative to the
first centerline. Element 18: wherein the second centerline has a
greater angle (.theta.) between itself and the first centerline
than an angle (.alpha.) between the third centerline and the first
centerline. Element 19: wherein the second bore is a main leg bore
and the third bore is a lateral leg bore. Element 20: wherein the
second bore has a diameter (d.sub.2) and the third bore has a
diameter (d.sub.3), and further wherein the diameter (d.sub.2) is
the same as the diameter (d.sub.3). Element 22: wherein the second
bore has a first portion having the diameter (d.sub.2) and a second
portion having a greater diameter (d.sub.2'). Element 23: wherein
the second portion is located between the first portion and the
single first bore. Element 24: wherein a length (L.sub.2) of the
second portion is at least two times a length (L.sub.1) of the
first portion. Element 25: wherein the second and third bores
overlap one another proximate the single first bore. Element 26:
wherein a shared interior wall of the second and third bores comes
to a sharp point at a location wherein the second and third bores
overlap one another. Element 27: wherein a shared interior wall of
the second and third bores comes to a blunt stress relief point at
a location wherein the second and third bores overlap one another.
Element 28: wherein the third bore includes a box joint at the
second opposing end. Element 29: wherein the second bore includes a
pin joint at the second opposing end. Element 30: wherein the
mainbore leg and the lateral bore leg are threadingly engaged with
the y-block. Element 31: wherein the second bore and the third bore
each include only a single straight centerline. Element 32: wherein
the second centerline is angled relative to the first centerline
and the third centerline is angled relative to the first
centerline. Element 33: wherein the second centerline has a greater
angle (.theta.) between itself and the first centerline than an
angle (.alpha.) between the third centerline and the first
centerline. Element 34: wherein the second bore has a first portion
having the diameter (d.sub.2) and a second portion having a greater
diameter (d.sub.2'). Element 35: wherein the second portion is
located between the first portion and the single first bore.
Element 36: wherein the second and third bores overlap one another
proximate the single first bore. Element 37: wherein a shared
interior wall of the second and third bores comes to a sharp point
at a location wherein the second and third bores overlap one
another. Element 38: wherein a shared interior wall of the second
and third bores comes to a blunt stress relief point at a location
wherein the second and third bores overlap one another. Element 39:
wherein further including fracturing the at least one of the main
wellbore or the lateral wellbore with the fracturing string
extending through the y-block. Element 40: wherein selectively
accessing at least one of the main wellbore or the lateral wellbore
includes selectively accessing the main wellbore with a first
fracturing string through the y-block. Element 41: further
including fracturing the main wellbore with the first fracturing
string extending through the y-block. Element 42: further including
selectively accessing the lateral wellbore with a second fracturing
string through the y-block. Element 43: further including
fracturing the lateral wellbore with the second fracturing string
extending through the y-block. Element 44: wherein selectively
accessing the main wellbore and fracturing the main wellbore occurs
prior to selectively accessing the lateral wellbore and fracturing
the lateral wellbore. Element 45: wherein selectively accessing the
main wellbore and fracturing the main wellbore occurs after
selectively accessing the lateral wellbore and fracturing the
lateral wellbore. Element 46: wherein further including producing
fluids from fractures in the main wellbore and fractures in the
lateral wellbore through the y-block. Element 47: wherein the main
bore leg and lateral bore leg have an inner diameter (d.sub.M/ID)
and diameter (d.sub.L/ID), respectively, of at least about 80 mm.
Element 48: wherein the main bore leg and lateral bore leg have an
inner diameter (d.sub.M/ID) and diameter (d.sub.L/ID),
respectively, of at least about 87 mm. Element 49: wherein the main
bore leg and lateral bore leg have an inner diameter (d.sub.M/ID)
and diameter (d.sub.L/ID), respectively, of at least about 90 mm.
Element 50: wherein the fracturing string has an outside diameter
(d.sub.F/OD) of at least about 78 mm. Element 51: wherein the
fracturing string has an outside diameter (d.sub.F/OD) of at least
about 85.7 mm. Element 52: wherein the fracturing string has an
inside diameter (d.sub.F/ID) of at least about 50.8 mm. Element 53:
wherein the multilateral junction is operable to handle at least
8,000 psi burst rate. Element 54: wherein the multilateral junction
is operable to handle at least 10,000 psi burst rate. Element 55:
wherein the second and third centerlines are angled relative to one
another. Element 56: wherein the second and third bores overlap one
another proximate the single first bore. Element 57: wherein a
shared interior wall of the second and third bores comes to a sharp
point at a location wherein the second and third bores overlap one
another. Element 58: wherein a shared interior wall of the second
and third bores comes to a blunt stress relief point at a location
wherein the second and third bores overlap one another.
[0058] Those skilled in the art to which this application relates
will appreciate that other and further additions, deletions,
substitutions and modifications may be made to the described
embodiments.
* * * * *